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Refractory: meaning, definitions and examples

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refractory

 

[ rɪˈfræktəri ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

medical context

In a medical context, the term 'refractory' refers to a disease or condition that is resistant to treatment. For example, a refractory tumor does not respond to standard therapies and may require alternative approaches. Such conditions often pose significant challenges in the medical field, as they may necessitate more aggressive or innovative treatments.

Synonyms

resistant, stubborn, unyielding

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with a refractory arthritis.
  • Refractory epilepsy is difficult to control with medication.
  • Doctors are researching effective treatments for refractory cancers.
Context #2 | Adjective

general use

In general use, 'refractory' describes someone or something that is difficult to manage or control. This could refer to a person who refuses to obey rules or conform to expectations. This usage conveys an idea of obstinacy or defiance, suggesting a tendency to resist authority or guidance.

Synonyms

intractable, obstinate, recalcitrant

Examples of usage

  • The refractory student refused to listen to the teacher.
  • His refractory behavior got him into trouble.
  • She has a refractory attitude towards authority.

Translations

Translations of the word "refractory" in other languages:

🇵🇹 refratário

🇮🇳 प्रतिरोधी

🇩🇪 refraktär

🇮🇩 refraktori

🇺🇦 рефрактерний

🇵🇱 refrakcyjny

🇯🇵 耐火性の

🇫🇷 réfractaire

🇪🇸 refractario

🇹🇷 refrakter

🇰🇷 내화성의

🇸🇦 مقاوم

🇨🇿 refrakterní

🇸🇰 refraktérny

🇨🇳 耐火的

🇸🇮 refrakterni

🇮🇸 þolinn

🇰🇿 рефракторлы

🇬🇪 რეფრაქტული

🇦🇿 refrakter

🇲🇽 refractario

Etymology

The word 'refractory' originates from the Latin term 'refractarius', meaning 'obstinate' or 'stubborn', which is derived from 'refringere', meaning 'to break back'. The prefix 're-' connotes 'back' or 'again', while 'frangere' means 'to break'. The term was adopted into English in the late 15th century, originally used to describe materials that resist heat or require high temperatures to be changed. Over time, it expanded in usage to include a broader range of meanings, particularly in medical terminology, where it emphasizes resistance to treatment. The transition from a physical descriptor to one that encompasses behavioral traits reflects the word's flexibility and adaptability in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,857 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.